Spring Thaw Out Wines

If you’re one of the many across the country who’s suffered through a long, bitterly cold winter, you’re probably dreaming of spring’s first blooms, summer barbeques at the beach and ditching those four layers of clothing you’ve been sporting for the last three months! In anticipation of warmer days ahead, we’ve decided to think spring and offer some recommendations for transitional wines, plus a few serving suggestions for Passover and Easter.

1. Fuller-Bodied Whites

Spring weather is notoriously unpredictable and trying to find a balance can be challenging. Not quite ready for the zippy, light whites of summer but searching for a little refreshment? Enter medium- to full-bodied whites! Just like that spring jacket you’re dying to wear, they offer just enough weight while keeping things fresh! Try: Feudi di San Gregorio Falanghina, Bottega Vinaia Gewürztraminer and Planeta Cometa.

2. Light-Bodied Reds

True, you would have never made it through February without those big, bold reds for sipping around the fireplace. But now it’s time for something a tad more invigorating and appropriate for drinking, dare we even say it, outdoors! A lighter-bodied red will be the perfect companion on a blustery spring day! Try: Arrogant Frog Pinot Noir, Bertani Valpolicella and Alta Luna Pinot Noir.

3. Rosè

It’s never too soon to drink pink! The 2014 vintage rosè wines are arriving on American shores, making it the perfect time to kick-off the season with a first taste! Let these beautiful, fruity, floral wines erase all memory of the recent polar vortex! Try: Jean-Luc Colombo Cape Bleue Rosè, Remy Pannier Rosè d’Anjou and Periquita Rosè.

4. Wines for Passover

With Passover Seder just around the corner, it’s time to start thinking about the perfect wines to enjoy with family and friends. Look no further than Israel! Israeli winemaking is in the midst of a renaissance, and not only are the wines Kosher, they are truly competitive on a global scale; stunning examples of the region’s terroir, filled with elegance and finesse. Try: Recanati Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Recanati Diamond Series Rosè, and Recanati Yasmin White Mevushal.

5. Wines for Easter

hoppity Easter’s on its way…and so is Easter dinner! Ham is a staple on most American tables come Easter Sunday and depending on your preferred style of preparation the possibilities are endless! Serving a smoked ham? Try a lush, spicy Malbec like Salentein Reserve Malbec or Santa Rita Reserva Malbec. Opting for a sweeter style ham garnished with pineapple? Pair with a fruit-forward Riesling with some residual sugar like S.A. Prüm Wehlener Sonnenuhr Riesling or Blue Fish Sweet Riesling.